Editor's Letter: "How I Went from HATING Delhi Winter to Really Liking It"

​Confession: I've always kinda hated months November to January. I know, I know, that sounds rather melodramatic, but just hear me out. I don't know when or how or why it happened, but for as long as I can remember, I've greeted the change from summer to winter with a feeling that can be best described as 'a sinking heart'. Each year, as winter approaches, I find myself becoming anxious and cranky, dreading the cold and sun-less evenings, the inability to look good in a dress without catching pneumonia, and cold, wet sleeves that come with doing something basic like washing your hands. Recently, I discussed this with my best friend, and mournfully told her how I couldn't WAIT for February to arrive. She was puzzled. 'But I LOVE winter!' she enthused. 'I associate it with fabulous parties and festivities and barbecues and hot chocolate, and just thinking about all those things makes me happy!'

Later, back home, I thought about what she had said. And I decided to embark on a little experiment. Over the next few days, whenever I felt heavy-hearted seeing woollen scarves or browned leaves or sniffing that 'winter smell' (you know what I mean), I reminded myself of all the wonderful things that were on their way—Christmas trees, Santa Claus, sunny brunches with mulled wine, and a New Year's vacation with friends. As the evenings became nippy, I thought about my recently purchased 'coat wardrobe'. And when my mind worried about frozen hands and winter flus and food that needs to be re (re) heated, I ordered it to think about movies in bed and how lovely it was that velvet is a big trend this season. And then something strange happened—I actually felt 'anticipation excitement'! After years of hating winter, I was actually looking forward to it. I learned an important lesson here—perception can totally change your life. When you approach something with negativity, you're not even giving yourself a chance to enjoy or experience it properly. But force yourself to think about the positives, and you may be pleasantly surprised.

Cosmo Editor Nandini Bhalla has too many obsessions for own good (mostly involving clothes, shoes, and bags). Follow her on Instagram: @nandinibhalla​